32 Places to Visit in Pune
32 Places to Visit in Pune
Image Credits: Yogendra Joshi
The metropolis that is Pune is banked beside river Mutha and is blessed with an ambient weather throughout the year. Being in close proximity to several tourist spots, Puneites are spoilt for choice when it comes to weekend getaway sites as well as those one day road trips!
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1) Aga Khan Palace
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The heritage structure of this palace is an architectural marvel constructed in 1892 and finds special mention as the place where Mahatma Gandhi was imprisoned along with his wife, during the freedom struggle. Apart from its beautiful architecture, this is one of the tourist places which also boasts of sprawling garden where visitors can stroll around.
Timing: 9 am to 6 pm
Entry Fee: Rs 5 for adults and Rs 2 for children, Rs 100 for foreign tourists
Photography Allowed or not: Yes
2) Pataleshwar Cave Temple
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This historic temple that stands in the heart of the city dates back to the 8th century. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this structure was carved out of a single piece of basalt rock resembling the Ellora caves in design. This temple also houses statues of other Hindu Gods and Goddesses.
Timing: 8:30 am to 5:30 pm
Entry Fee: none
Photography Allowed or not: yes
3) Osho Ashram
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Also known as Rajneesh Ashram after its founder, this spiritual meditation centre is one of the most frequented places to visit in Pune by foreign tourists. One can tour the premises to view the Meditation hall and Osho Samadhi besides opting to undergo a meditation session there. There is also an adjacent Zen garden called Osho Teerth which is full of lush green flora and is an ideal spot to relax in.
Timing: 9 am to 3:30 pm
Entry Fee: Rs 40
Photography Allowed or not: Organized photo tour during certain times of the day
4) Pu La Deshpande Garden
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This lush garden is also called the Pune-Okayama Friendship garden since it is inspired from a garden in Japan’s Okayama. The expansive grounds of the garden consist of beautifully landscaped lawns and it even has a children’s play area. One can unwind amid the green locales of this place and return back feeling refreshed.
Timing: 6-10:30 am and 4-8 pm
Entry Fee: Rs 5
Photography Allowed or not: no
5) National War Museum
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This war memorial is dedicated to those army personnel who sacrificed their lives in defense of the country in post-independence India. The main structure is around 25 feet tall and there is also a MIG aircraft on display here. This entire monument was funded by residents of Pune in memory of the heroes of Indian army.
Timing: 9 am to 5:30 pm
Entry Fee: none
Photography Allowed or not: yes
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6) Peshwa Udyan
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This garden is a perfect for families since it has a zoo besides a mini-train and park for children, which makes it quite popular with young visitors. On a picnic to this garden one can also look forward to going on animal rides and boating or simply relax amid its picturesque surroundings.
Timing: 9 am to 5:30 pm
Entry Fee: Rs 1 for children and Rs 2 for adults
Photography Allowed or not: yes
7) Shaniwar Wada Palace
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Once the royal residence of the Peshwa rulers, this palace is a unique blend of Mughal architecture and Maratha craftsmanship. Standing near the Mula-Mutha River, this is one of the historic places to visit in Pune because it was ravaged by a fire in the early 19th century which destroyed much of its structure. However, one can still view the splendid gardens and the remaining structures besides attending the sound and light show conducted every evening within the premises. Additionally, one should never forget to visit numerous hill stations near pune along with their family and friends.
Timing: 8 am to 5 pm
Entry Fee: Rs 5 for Indians and Rs 125 for foreign visitors
Photography Allowed or not: yes
8) Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum
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This museum exhibits an ancient but eclectic collection of everyday items as well as unique art pieces collected by Dr Kelkar. With items ranging from earthenware to musical instruments and lamps, paintings and textiles to weaponry and ivory, one can catch a glimpse of the artifacts sourced from all over the country. But what makes this one of the most unique places to visit is the recreated room of Mastani mahal.
Timing: 9:30 am to 5:30 pm
Entry Fee: Rs 5 for kids, Rs 20 for adults and Rs 200 for foreign visitors
Photography Allowed or not: yes
[Enjoy a 3-day fun filled learning period with the introductory paragliding course in Kamshet]
9) Katraj Snake Park
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Also known as Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park and one of the most frequented places to visit in Pune, the Katraj Snake Park initially housed only snakes and other reptiles. However, it is now a full-fledged zoo with a lake within its premises where one can enjoy a round of boating after touring the park. A mini-train runs through the zoo which appeals to young visitors.
Timing: 9:30 am to 5 pm
Photography Allowed or not: yes
10) National Defence Academy
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This training ground for India’s armed forces stands in the Khadakwasla region, on theoutskirts of Pune. Set amid a green terrain, this academy also has an architectural masterpiece in the form of Sudan Block, standing within its boundaries.
Timing: only on Sunday (with prior permission)
Entry Fee: none
Photography Allowed or not: no
11) Shinde Chhatri
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Built as a tribute to a Peshwa commander, this monument is built in Rajasthani design. There is also a Shiva temple in the complex apart from the three-storied memorial, both reflecting exquisite construction style.
Timing: 6 am to 9 pm
Entry Fee: none
Photography Allowed or not:
[Further, even you can enjoy rajasthan tour packages from mumbai]
12) Parvati Hill
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Parvati hill, about 2100 ft high, is located in southern Pune has a temple dedicated to the Hindu Gods at its summit. After climbing 100 steps to the peak, one can view the skyline of Pune as well as the scenic hilly backdrop. Apart from the temple, built by the Peshwas, there is also a small museum with artifacts dating back to the rule of this Maratha dynasty.
Timing: 5 am to 8 pm
Entry Fee: none
Photography Allowed or not: yes
13) Darshan Museum
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This biographical museum is meant to introduce audiences to the life and mission of the scholar Sadhu Vasvani, the founder of the Vasvani Mission. It includes an interactive sound and light show wherein interactive technology has been used to make the experience more engaging for visitors.
Timing: 11 am to 7 pm
Entry Fee: none
Photography Allowed or not: yes
Places to visit near Pune in One Day (within 200 Kms)
14) Jadhavgadh Fort (Distance: 30 Kms)
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This 18th century fort, named after a strong and loyal Maratha general in the Peshwa army, is one of the places to visit around Pune in one day where one is drifted back in time. This heritage structure now has a five-star hotel running on its premises. The historic structure has closeted inner structures including a Ganesha temple as well as a small museum.
Location: South-east Pune
Best time to Visit: Throughout the year
Attractions: The massive fort, with now converted to a hotel, standing atop a hill appeals to everyone. This fort has been renovated to offer luxurious modern comforts to its patrons.
Activities: Take a walk around the fort area, go for a bullock cart ride, enjoy the Ghazal night held every Saturday or visit the museum to see the old exhibits on display.
Type of destination: family and kid friendly, heritage sight seeing
15) Sinhagad (Distance: 37 Kms)
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Sinhagad or ‘lion’s fort’, is one of the popular tourists place near Pune which is situated on the Bhuleshwar range of the Sahyadri Mountains and was built as a tactical battle ground around two thousand years ago.
Location: Southwest of Pune
Best time to Visit: July to February
Attractions: Sinhagad is where Puneites head to for a picnic. Its high elevation allows visitors to take in the scenic landscape which is swathed in delicate mist during the rainy season.
Activities: Trekking to the top of the hill and indulging in fun and games is what one can look forward to on a trip to Sinhagad. You can also opt to drive to the spot which is a scenic route to take.
Type of destination: trekking, historical
[Check out the trekking in Pune]
16) Panshet Dam (Distance: 42 Kms)
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This dam built in the early 1900s is not only a source of water for Pune, but a favoured spot for a weekend outing with family and friends. Water sports are a dominant recreational activity enjoyed by visitors here.
Location: Southwest of Pune, on River Mutha
Best time to Visit: October to May
Attractions: Panshet is one of the places to visit near Pune where one can indulge in water sports like wind surfing, kayaking, speed boating and pedal boating at the water park located here. One can also view the Sahyadri Mountains from this spot.
Activities: Enjoy boating and other water sports, go for a picnic or family outing in this destination surrounded by the Sahyadri range.
Type of destination: family and kid friendly, trekking
[Delight in an aqua fun experience in rapidsthat are a rage at Saje, a small village on the banks of River Kundalika]
17) Kamshet (Distance: 48 Kms)
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This scenic hill-town is a renowned paragliding destination near Pune. Its striking locale is surrounded by small villages, cave temples and medieval hill fortresses making it a preferred weekend getaway.
Location: Western Ghats, close to Lonavalaand Khandala
Best time to Visit: October to February
Attractions: Vadivali Lake, a large waterbody at a height of 2200 ft, about 12 kms from Kamshet is where one can enjoy a boat ride or bump into several waterfalls in the region. Kondeshwar temple and Vidveshwar temple, Karla, Bhaja and Bhedsa caves are other tourist attractions in Kamshet.
Activities: Trekking and exploring the nearby caves, paragliding, rock climbing and rapelling are organized by several adventure camps located here.
Type of destination: trekking, pilgrimage,adventure activities.
18) Rajgad Fort (Distance: 50 Kms)
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A former capital of the Maratha Empire, this fort stands on top of the Murumbadevi Mountain. This historical tourist spot has many tales since the famous warrior Shivaji resided here for many years.
Location: southwest of Pune
Best time to Visit:
Attractions: The fort hosts palaces, water cisterns and caves thus attracting several history enthusiasts. One can also look forward to hiking up to this destination.
Activities: Trekking to the fort followed by indulging in some sight seeing around the fort.
Type of destination: family and kid friendly, historic, trekking
[However, there are numerous popular mumbai tourist attractions]
19) Lavasa (Distance: 57 Kms)
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This hill station in the Western Ghats is a planned city situated in close proximity to the Varasgaon Dam. Surrounded by verdant mountains, this tourist place is about 2500 ft high which lends it a cool climate through the year.
Location: Between Mumbai and Pune
Best time to Visit: Throughout the year
Attractions: Apart from the Varasgaon Dam, there are quite a few parks and gardens in Lavasa where one can enjoy picnics and family outings. There is even a musical fountain and laser animation show that keeps tourists entertained.
Activities: Water based activities including jet skiing, kayaking and boating are popular in the lake at Lavasa. Adventure activities like rock climbing, rapelling and trekking are also organized here.
Type of destination: family and kid friendly, adventure
20) Visapur Fort (Distance: 60 Kms)
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Visapur Fort was constructed during the reign of the first Peshwa of the Maratha Empire and has several Hanuman temples on its grounds. Being located on top a hill, the fort overlooks breathtaking green thickets.
Location: Northwest of Pune, near Lonavala
Best time to Visit: June to August
Attractions: Bhaja and Karla Caves can be included in a day trip to this place. The hill station of Lonavala is 20 kms away that is suitable for trekking and sightseeing because of its numerous waterfalls.
Activities: Trekking around the fort is the prime activity here.
Type of destination: Historic sightseeing, trekking
21) Khandala (Distance: 69 Kms)
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Another hill station not too far from Pune, Khandala stands in the Western Ghats on the Mumbai-Pune highway. It is a popular weekend holiday destination due to its natural charm. Residents of both Pune and Mumbai find it a convenient weekend getaway.
Location: On the Mumbai-Pune expressway
Best time to Visit: October to April
Attractions: The two viewpoints Tiger’s Leap and the Duke’s nose, which is a cliff shaped like a nose, overlook the ravishing valley. Bhushi dam and the lake that is formed by its backwaters are the most visited tourist spots during peak season.
Activities: Exploring the caves nearby or trekking in the forests deep in the valleys are prominent activities here. One can even go for family picnics here.
Type of destination: trekking, family and kids friendly
22) Tamhini Ghat (Distance: 70 Kms)
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A mountain pass in the Western Ghats, Tamhini is situated close to Khandala. This is another one of the tourist places to visit in Pune that provides visitors with mesmerizing views of frothing waterfalls, towering mountains and refreshingly green vegetation.
Location: En route to Mumbai from Pune, near Khandala
Best time to Visit: Monsoons
Attractions: There are gorgeous views of several waterfalls gushing over the edge of huge mountain cliffs that disappear down the valley.
Activities: Trekking around the scenic cliffs and lush valleys of the ghat are fun activities to indulge in.
Type of destination: Family and kid friendly, trekking
23) Mulshi Dam (Distance: 76 Kms)
Built on the Mula River, Mulshi dam and the lake formed by it is frequented by Puneites. It is surrounded by lush green mountains which makes for a pretty picture and the drive from Pune to the dam is picturesque to state the least.
Location: Outskirts of Pune
Best time to Visit: monsoons
Attractions: Mulshi dam and its lake are quite the tourist hotspots due to its eye-catching landscape. Thus Mulshi makes anideal place to visit near Pune in one day.
Activities: Drive to this dam and splash around in the waters of the lake. Make sure to take your picnic basket along for this one-day outing.
Type of destination: family and kid friendly
24) Rajmachi (Distance: 78 Kms)
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This obscure village is one of the tourist places near Pune that is hidden within the Sahyadri ranges. A fort stands in close proximity to this place which is frequented by hikers and adventure buffs. Come rains and this expanse of land is covered in lush greenery along with several waterfalls and small streams.
Location: Between Khandala and Lonavala
Best time to Visit: September to March
Attractions: Rajmachi fort, with two fortified structures called Shrivardhan fort and Manaranjan fort, is the prime attraction here.
Activities: Trekking and camping are conducted by adventure groups throughout the year.
Type of destination: trekking, historic
[This heart-shaped island is counted as one of the best and stunning sites for scuba diving]
25) Adlabs Imagica (Distance 88 kms)
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The much publicized theme park called Adlabs Imagica is the latest addition to the list of popular places to visit near Pune in one day. The park has a wide range of shows, water rides, thrill rides and much more.
Location: off Mumbai-Pune expressway
Best time to Visit: Throughout the year
Attractions: Thrill rides like ‘scream machine’, ‘nitro’ and ‘gold rush express’ are sure to induce an adrenaline-rush. Family and kid-friendly rides include ‘Bump it boats’, ‘splash ahoy’, ‘the magic carousel’, ‘happy wheels’ and ‘humpty’s fall’, that will make a family outing to this place a worthwhile experience.
Activities: Try the various rides available at the amusement park, meet and take pictures with the cartoon characters on the grounds, enjoy performances by magicians, stilt walkers, jugglers and clowns.
Type of destination: family and kid friendly
26) Junnar Caves (Distance: 90 Kms)
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Not too far from the Shivneri Fort is the town of Junnar that has a rich past. Enveloped between the mountain ranges of the Sahyadris, this place was ruled by several dynasties in succession.
Location: Base of the Sahyadris, north of Pune
Best time to Visit: December to February
Attractions: Apart from the temples in Junnar, one of the prime attractions of Junnar are the 200 individual rock-cut caves here that display fine architectural work on their ceilings.
Activities: Visit the Shivneri fort, about 4 kmsfrom Junnar and pay obeisance at the Lenyadri and Ozar temples dedicated to Ganesha. Manikdoh and Vadaj dams closeby are other tourist attractions in Junnar.
Type of destination: Family and kid friendly, historic, pilgrimage
27) Lenyadri (Distance: 97 Kms)
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The Lenyadri Caves comprise of around 40 rock-cut Buddhist caves. These caves date back to the 1st and the 3rd century AD and are located towards the north-west bank of Kukadi River.
Location: North of Junnar
Best time to Visit: December - February
Attractions: All caves here are unique but cave 7 is the most popular one among visitors since it has a temple dedicated to Ganesha inside it. The rest are Buddhist Viharas and some of them have domes, pillars and verandahs included in their structure.
Activities: Cave exploration is the main activity one can look forward to here.
Type of destination: family and kid friendly, historic, pilgrimage
28) Panchgani (Distance: 101 Kms)
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Set in the depths of the Sahyadri ranges is the quaint hill station of Panchgani. With a pleasant climate throughout the year, it appealed to the Britishers who established this place as a summer retreat and it continues to lure tourists till date.
Location: Satara district of Maharashtra, near Mahabaleshwar
Best time to Visit: September - May
Attractions: Sydney and Parsi Points both overlook the majestic river Krishna and the Dhom dam. Table land, which is the longest mountain plateau in Asia covering 95 acres and stands 4550 feet above sea level, is the place from where one can spot the Devil’s Kitchen caves.
Activities: A visit to one of the several strawberry farms dotting this region is not to be missed. You can buy products like jams and squashes in these farms too. 10 kms from Panchgani are the Rajapuri caves which make a fun day-outing spot.
Type of destination: Family and kid friendly, trekking
29) Satara (Distance: 112 Kms)
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Standing at the confluence of the River Krishna and its tributary Venna, Satara was once the capital of the Maratha Empire. Being a renowned heritage site, it is one of the places to visit near Pune in one day where one can come across several remnants of the past.
Location: South western Maharashtra, near River Krishna
Best time to Visit: July to February
Attractions: Satara’s Ajinkyatara and Sajjangarh Forts are a delight for history buffs while the Kas plateau and the lake form prime tourist attractions for nature lovers. Thoseghar waterfalls and Vajrai waterfall are other must-visit sites between Satara and Pune.
Activities: Go sightseeing within the forts, bathe in the scenic rapture of the terrain, go for picnics to the Kas plateau and nearby waterfalls
Type of destination: Family and kid friendly, historic
30) Mahabaleshwar (Distance: 120 Kms)
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Mahabaleshwar is a hill station standing on an extensive plateau and enclosed by valleys on all sides. This tourist destinationnear Pune is also said to be the site where the River Krishna originates in the prehistoric Mahadev temple.
Location: South west of Pune, in Satara district
Best time to Visit: October - June
Attractions: There are several viewpoints in Mahabaleshwar including Arthur’s Seat, Kate’s Point, Needle Hole Point, Wilson Point and the 3 Monkey Point. One can view the rock formations, valleys, and the immediate terrain of Mahabaleshwar from these places to visit in Pune. A mere 22 kms from here is Pratapgarh Fort which is another tourist spot here.
Activities: Boating in Venna Lake and visiting these viewpoints that offer a breathtaking view are things that one can do here.
Type of destination: family and kid friendly, historic
31) Malshej Ghat (Distance: 120 Kms)
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Malshej Ghat is a mountain pass in the Western Ghats flourishing in varied flora and avian fauna. Impressive views of the valleys and a wide variety of wildlife are the main attractions here.
Location: In the Western Ghat range, north of Pune
Best time to Visit: Throughout the year
Attractions: Harishchandragad is an ancient fort near Malshej which hosts several caves and temples. The areas around the plentitude of cascading waterfalls make ideal a picnic spots. Shivneri Fort, the birthplace of the Maratha ruler Shivaji, is around 30 kms from Malshej and can also be included on your itinerary.
Activities: Indulge in some bird watching and wildlife viewing in the forests, trek around the forts and enjoy stunning views of the valleys and waterfalls.
Type of destination: family and kid friendly, historic
32) Raigad (Distance: 125 Kms)
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Once the capital of the Maratha King Shivaji, Raigad fort stands at an altitude of 2700 feet. In order to reach this citadel one has to climb up nearly 1737 steps or take the cable car which also allows a panoramic view of the region.
Location: Southwest of Pune, near Vagholi
Best time to Visit: September - November
Attractions: Among the ruins within the fort, one can view the queen’s chambers, main palace, three watch towers, the market area, granaries, the public ‘durbar’ and an artificial lake.
Activities: Trek to the fort and get a bird’s eye view of the terrain below. Observe the historic structures within the fort that was once the home of the famous Shivaji.
Type of destination: family & kid friendly, historic, trekking
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